Robonaut 2 is set to become the first humanoid robot in space this month (Image: NASA)

Robonaut 2 is set to become the first humanoid robot in space this month (Image: NASA)

R2 and the STS-133 Crew (Image: NASA)

A view of the front of the SLEEPR that will protect R2 during launch (Image: NASA)

Robonaut 2 is set to become the first humanoid robot in space this month (Image: NASA)

Robonaut 2 is prepared for launch (Image: NASA)

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Article Summary

Robonaut 2 will become the first humanoid robot to head into space next month when the space shuttle Discovery blasts-off. R2 has been waiting for this trip for a while, but will have to wait a little longer to get its “space-legs” since only its torso, head and arms are making the initial journey. Because R2’s legs are still being tested, they’ll be sent up on a later launch, as will a few other upgrades that are designed to ultimately allow the robot to help astronauts with extra-vehicular activities.